Evaluation of Changes in Sexual Function After Cataract Surgery: A Prospective Study Using the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF)
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.33719/sexscij.2512.26Keywords:
cataract surgery, International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF), sexual function, visual acuityAbstract
Objective: To evaluate postoperative changes in male sexual function after cataract surgery and to examine the association between improvements in visual acuity and sexual performance using the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF).
Material and Methods: This prospective observational study included 52 men with age-related cataract who underwent uncomplicated phacoemulsification and intraocular lens implantation. Sexual function was assessed using the IIEF, encompassing erectile function, orgasmic function, sexual desire, intercourse satisfaction, and overall satisfaction. Assessments were conducted preoperatively and one month postoperatively. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and demographic data were also recorded. Paired Student’s t-test was used to compare pre- and postoperative results.
Results: The mean BCVA improved significantly from 0.58 ± 0.21 logMAR preoperatively to 0.14 ± 0.09 logMAR at one month (p < 0.001). Total IIEF scores increased from 35 ± 1.6 to 43 ± 1.7 (p < 0.005), indicating overall enhancement in sexual function. Significant improvements were observed in orgasmic function, sexual desire, intercourse satisfaction, and overall satisfaction (p < 0.005 for all), while changes in erectile function were not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Visual improvement correlated positively with changes in total IIEF score (r = 0.52, p = 0.001).
Conclusion: Cataract surgery not only restores vision but also positively influences sexual and psychosocial well-being. Improvements in sexual satisfaction, desire, and orgasmic function highlight the broader quality-of-life benefits of visual rehabilitation. Further large-scale studies are needed to clarify the mechanisms underlying this association.
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